Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites are the ultimate treat for sweet tooth enthusiasts! These delightful treats beautifully combine the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweetness of cherries. They are not only delicious but also remarkably easy to make, making them perfect for any occasion — from birthday parties and family gatherings to just a casual evening dessert. Imagine biting into a smooth cheesecake nestled atop a crunchy vanilla wafer and topped with luscious cherry pie filling. The flavor explosion is irresistible!
Perfect for a gathering or just to satisfy that craving for something sweet, these Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites are a hit with people of all ages. The simplicity in their preparation means you can whip them up in under an hour, giving you more time to enjoy the company of friends or indulge in a quiet evening at home. Plus, these treats can be prepared a day in advance, so you can bake them ahead and serve them chilled, which enhances their delicious flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites
Here are a few reasons why these cupcakes will become your go-to dessert:
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherries is utterly delicious and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and simple steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cute cupcake bites are easy to share, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
- Prep Ahead: Make them in advance and store them in the fridge for a refreshing treat whenever the craving strikes.
- Versatile: Feel free to experiment by adding various toppings or mix-ins to customize your cupcakes!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin crafting your Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F), ensuring it’s ready for baking. Line a muffin pan with 20 cupcake liners to create a neat base for your treats.
In terms of equipment, you’ll need a mixing bowl and an electric mixer (or a good old-fashioned whisk) to achieve that creamy, fluffy cheesecake filling. Also, have a measuring cup and spoons handy for accurate ingredient measurements, along with a spatula for mixing and portioning your cupcake batter into the liners. A spoon will come in handy for topping your cupcakes with cherry pie filling once they have cooled. Preparing your workspace helps streamline the process, making your baking experience enjoyable and efficient.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your scrumptious Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites:
- 20 cupcake liners
- 20 vanilla wafers
- 450 grams cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 150 grams granulated sugar
- 15 millilitres lemon juice
- 5 millilitres vanilla extract
- 595 grams cherry pie filling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). While the oven heats up, take your muffin pan and line it with 20 cupcake liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner, ensuring the flat side is facing down. This will serve as the perfect crunchy base for your creamy cheesecake filling.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial for a creamy texture. Gradually mix in granulated sugar until well combined, followed by the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and delightful. Enjoy a small taste test to ensure it’s just right!
Step 3: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Using a spatula or a spoon, portion the cheesecake filling into the prepared cupcake liners. Fill each liner about three-quarters full, allowing room for expansion while baking. Make sure to evenly distribute the mixture to ensure uniform baking and ensure that each cupcake has that perfect cheesecake flavor.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
Once the cupcakes are filled, place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cupcakes are done when the centers are set and no longer jiggly. After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the cupcakes cool completely in the pan. This cooling phase allows the cupcakes to firm up and makes them easier to top with the cherry filling.
Step 5: Top with Cherry Pie Filling
Once your Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites have cooled, it’s time for the finishing touch! Spoon a generous dollop of cherry pie filling onto the top of each cupcake. Make sure to pour it gently so that the filling stays on top of the cheesecake rather than spilling over the sides, presenting a beautiful and delicious treat!
Variations
- Protein: For an added boost, consider mixing in some Greek yogurt into the cheesecake filling for creaminess and protein.
- Vegetables: While this dessert is inherently sweet, you can try incorporating a blend of fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile that pairs beautifully with cherry.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure to let cream cheese soften at room temperature for easy mixing, enhancing the overall texture.
- Consider preparing the cherry cheesecake cupcakes a day before you need them. Refrigerating them allows flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful dessert option after a meal.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Tips
- Experiment by adding chocolate chips into the filling for a chocolatey twist on a classic cheesecake.
- For a unique texture variation, consider using crushed graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers for the base.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 220 calories per cupcake
- Protein: About 4 grams
- Sodium: Roughly 160 mg
FAQs
Can I use lower-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with lower-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these cupcake bites?
Yes, they freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and consume within a month for the best quality.
Can I change the topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the topping with fresh fruits, chocolate sauces, or even a drizzle of caramel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites are the perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and sweet cherries, perfectly encapsulated in a delightful cupcake. Their ease of preparation makes them accessible to bakers of all levels, and they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to try different variations to personalize these treats for your taste. We hope you enjoy making and, more importantly, eating these little bites of heaven! If you love this recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments or share it with your friends and family. Happy baking!
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Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites are the ultimate treat for sweet tooth enthusiasts!
Ingredients
- 20 cupcake liners
- 20 vanilla wafers
- 450 grams cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
- 150 grams granulated sugar
- 15 millilitres lemon juice
- 5 millilitres vanilla extract
- 595 grams cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). While the oven heats up, take your muffin pan and line it with 20 cupcake liners. Place a vanilla wafer at the bottom of each liner, ensuring the flat side is facing down.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Gradually mix in granulated sugar until well combined, followed by the eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Using a spatula or a spoon, portion the cheesecake filling into the prepared cupcake liners. Fill each liner about three-quarters full, allowing room for expansion while baking.
- Once the cupcakes are filled, place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the cupcakes are done when the centers are set and no longer jiggly.
- Once your Cherry Cheesecake Cupcake Bites have cooled, spoon a generous dollop of cherry pie filling onto the top of each cupcake.
Notes
Consider preparing the cherry cheesecake cupcakes a day before you need them. Refrigerating them allows flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Protein: 4 g